Experience made the difference against Newcastle Falcons - Mark McCall

Saracens Director of Rugby Mark McCall believes the experience to turn things around under pressure came handy in his team's victory over Newcastle Falcons at the Allianz Park on Sunday.

The win ensured a top of the table finish for the Saracens and also assured them a home semi-final later this month.

However, the victory did not come without a fight as the Falcons put on a spirited performance and were leading at the first-half of the game by 14-3.

It was Saracens' number-8 Jackson Wray, who swung the momentum back to the home side with a double try which was followed by another try from the lock Maro Itoje as they came from behind and registered a 23-14 victory. 

McCall reasoned tight schedule as one of the reasons for their lacklustre performance in the first-half of the game.

The 48-year-old also lauded the team for their impressive fightback in the second-half as Saracens gave a fitting end to their flanker Jacques Burger, who announced his retirement.

"I think we weren't able to play the way we wanted to during the first half.

"There are a few reasons for it. Obviously, last week took a lot out of us. Crucially we also didn't train a lot this week.

“A lot of the players went to Europe for two or three days and had a phenomenal time and I think we showed our experience in the second half to turn the situation around; that's the important thing.

"Where we were at the end of the match is a sign of the experience that we've got.

“We were able to fall back on some good fundamentals that we've had for a long time."

McCall also added that the club has arranged a trip to Dubrovnik in Croatia after the tournament following a hectic season. 

Saracens' next encounter will be against Worcester Warriors on 7th May at Sixways which will be followed by their home semi-final.